FUNCTION: This gene encodes a member of the matrix metalloproteinase family of extracellular matrix-degrading enzymes that are involved in tissue remodeling, wound repair, progression of atherosclerosis and tumor invasion. The encoded preproprotein undergoes proteolytic processing to generate a mature, zinc-dependent endopeptidase enzyme that degrades collagens. Mice lacking the encoded protein exhibit decreased susceptibility to chemical carcinogen-induced lung tumor development and angiogenesis. This gene is located in a cluster of other matrix metalloproteinase genes on chromosome 9. [provided by RefSeq, Feb 2016] PHENOTYPE: Mice homozygous for a knock-out allele exhibit reduced inflammatory response following chemical induction of tumors and male mice exhibit fewer large induced tumors. [provided by MGI curators]